39
Shifting
■
■Rear transaxle
The LFA’s gear change mechanism consists of a parallel two-shaft layout often used
in modern manual transmissions. In the LFA, the transmission and differential are
integrated and placed near the rear axle, thus realizing a rear transaxle configuration.
Gear shift and select commands are sent by the ECU to a hydraulically operated shift
mechanism for fast and precise operation.
To ensure ample strength and the ability to handle the engine’s broad torque curve,
various areas throughout the transaxle have been reinforced and high-capacity three-
point contact bearings have been adopted. Furthermore, each synchronizer ring
employs a high-friction carbon material to realize quicker engagement and faster
shifts. Additionally, the teeth of all speed gears have been micro-polished for precise
engagement and reduced gear whine.
The transaxle employs its own oil pump and oil cooling system to ensure a constant
supply of oil at a stable temperature even under demanding endurance conditions.
3rd 6th 5th 2nd 1st
Support bearings
Regarding synchronizers, 1st through 4th gears employ triple-cone units while 5th and 6th
gears are double-cone. A TORSEN
® LSD (Limited Slip Differential) with a specific amount
of preload dialed in has been adopted to ensure excellent traction and handling stability.
TORSEN
® LSD is a registered trademark of JTEKT. 4th
